Properties : Glucofer contains ferrous gluconate which has been successfully used in the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia due to its high content of metallic iron as it contains 12 % of elemental iron . Glucofer is well tolerated as iron in the form of ferrous gluconate is slowly liberated in the bowel so , it has lower side effects .

Indications & usage : Glucofer is indicated in the prophylaxis and treatment of all types of iron deficiency anemia especially in the following cases : For growing children . In pregnancy and lactation . In convalescence and debilitated conditions , in ankylostoma anaemia etc . In menorrhagia . After subtotal or total gastroctomy as prophylactic therapy .

Contra-indications: Iron preparations are contraindicated in patients with anaemias not produced by iron deficiency .

Side effects : As all oral iron preparations , gastrointestinal side effects ( gastrointestinal irritation , nausea and epigastric pain ) may occur . These side effects are dose related and can be reduced by taking drug after food or reducing the dose . Altered bowel habit ( constipation or diarrhea ) may occur but the relationship with dose is less clear . Oral iron preparations may cause constipation especially in older patients . Stool may appear darker in color .